Membership Benefits

There are many reasons to join an astronomy club. You meet new people with a common interest, enjoy the outdoors, eat great pizza, etc. membership in NSA offers a number of services for members. From film or CCD astrophotography to star-hopping our broad membership base can teach you what you need to know. Here are just a few more benefits. Our membership contains residents of the northwest suburbs of Chicagoland. If you live in the area and are interested in astronomy, check out what joining the NSA offers:

Access to Private NSA Group Site

The Private NSA Group site is where club members check out the Private NSA Calendar and and directions to club events, our message board, more photos, and a file sharing section.

Observing

NSA has special access to remote observing sites throughout Northern Illinois.
Members only observing sessions are scheduled every weekend except the weekend nearest the full moon.
Solar observing sessions are scheduled several times a year.
We also host Public Star Parties every year.
Invitation to our Annual private Star Party at Wildcat Mountain in Wisconsin.

Club Equipment

NSA is the proud owner of a 17” telescope. It is taken to many NSA observing events.

Equipment Rental

The club has two telescopes available for rental, as well as slide sets for programs and presentations. Please contact our VP of Social Activities for details.

Trips

Trips to / Tours of various observatories or other astronomical institutions such as Yerkes or Northwestern's Dearborn Observatory.

Discounts

A discounted subscription for Astronomy and Sky & Telescope magazines.

A free subscription to our monthly newsletter entitled “The Celestial Log”, containing information on upcoming events and articles written by club members.

Membership in National Organizations

Membership in the Astronomical League with its associated benefits.